Courtesy of the Rt Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada:
Today, we come together to recognize the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. Whether here in Canada or around the world, racism devalues individuals, divides communities, and breeds fear and animosity throughout society.
“In Canada, diversity is a source of strength and a fundamental pillar of our country’s success. While we have made important progress in the fight against racism and racial discrimination in recent decades, much work still needs to be done. Far too many people around the world continue to be denied their most basic human rights simply because of the colour of their skin or their ethnic background.
“The Government of Canada strongly condemns any form of discrimination at home and in our global community. We will continue to promote inclusiveness, acceptance, and equality in Canada and around the globe, and will never stop working for a safer, more equal, and more respectful world.
“On this important day, we reaffirm our ongoing responsibility to speak out against racism, hate, xenophobia, and bigotry in all its forms. Silence is not an option because progress is never permanent.”
From the Hon. Teresa Wat - BC's Minister responsible for Multiculturalism:
“Government is proud to reaffirm our commitment to a province free of discrimination by proclaiming March 21, 2017, as the Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination in British Columbia.
“As B.C.’s Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism, it is my honour to celebrate B.C.’s diversity and the advantages of our multicultural society. Acts of racism and discrimination threaten to erode the fabric of our multicultural society, and that’s why the B.C. government continually seeks new ways to combat racial discrimination.
“Our role in government is to create an environment where an inclusive and diverse population supports our communities. Over the last two years government has spent over $1.6 million annually on programs that promote multiculturalism, address racism and build inclusive communities in British Columbia.
“This includes developing Organizing Against Racism and Hate (OARH) networks throughout the province, providing public-education programs to help students understand and challenge racism, and offering multiculturalism grants for community groups to help them develop strategies to address racism and celebrate B.C.’s multicultural heritage in their communities.
“As the most ethnically diverse province in Canada, the roots of multiculturalism run deep in British Columbia. It is up to all of us to ensure that it flourishes and grows for the benefit of all British Columbians, today and for future generations.”
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